A different path to success

For many young people, university is seen as the default next step after school, but Kimberley knew early on that she wanted something different.

"I went through my GCSEs during COVID, so traditional learning didn’t appeal to me. I’d already spent so much time doing self-study during lockdown, and I knew that wasn’t for me," she explains.

An apprenticeship offered her the chance to gain on-the-job experience while working towards a qualification, all without the burden of student debt.

"If I want to, I can still go to university in the future, but at that point in time, an apprenticeship was the right choice for me," she adds.

Her advice to others considering an apprenticeship? Go for it.

"It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. You’re learning from experienced professionals, getting real-world skills, and earning qualifications that you can actually use in your career."

Growing in confidence

Stepping into the world of insurance as a teenager was a learning curve, but Kimberley embraced every opportunity to develop her skills.

"I’ve always been quite confident, but my knowledge of insurance has grown so much. Now, I can hold my own in conversations about business interruption insurance—which definitely wasn’t the case when I first started!"

Attending industry events like BIBA and the Ardonagh Spotlight Awards helped her connect with senior professionals and see firsthand the career progression opportunities within insurance.

"It was amazing to meet senior leaders and hear their career journeys. So many of them started just like I did, as an account handler."

Championing women in leadership

A turning point in Kimberley’s journey was completing the Women in Leadership programme, a course designed to support and empower women to step into leadership roles.

"I suppose I was quite naïve before. I assumed that women were given the same opportunities as everyone else, but I realised during the course, that’s not always the case," she reflects.

From seeing assumptions in the workplace to learning how to assert herself in meetings, the programme gave Kimberley valuable insights into what it takes to be a strong female leader.

"Sometimes, it feels like it’s easier for a man to walk into a room and command attention. As women, we can be so hard on ourselves—we talk ourselves out of opportunities before we even try. But we have to put our hands up and go for it."

Her advice to other women wanting to progress?

"Just do it. Don’t worry about whether others have more experience—you have something unique to offer. The worst thing that can happen is someone says no, and even then, you can try again. It’s always better than not trying at all."

Looking forward

Kimberley is now focused on the next step in her career. She knows she wants to be in a leadership role but is keeping her options open, exploring both insurer relationships and the specialist marine and oil sector.

"I’m taking each day as it comes, but in five years, I hope to be in a leadership position. I’d also love to expand my qualifications and continue learning," she says.

Her story is a testament to the power of apprenticeships, the importance of strong role models, and the impact of women supporting women.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, stories like Kimberley’s remind us that the path to success isn’t one-size-fits-all. By offering diverse career routes and leadership opportunities, industries like insurance can continue to empower young talent and build a future where everyone, regardless of gender or background, can thrive.

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